How should I take Valcyte?
Take VALCYTE exactly as your healthcare provider tells you. Your dose of VALCYTE will depend on your medical condition. Adults should only take VALCYTE tablets. Children may take either VALCYTE tablets or oral solution. Take VALCYTE with food. Do not break or crush VALCYTE tablets.
How do I get more information about the Cellcept® co-pay card program?
Learn more about our CellCept ® Co-pay Card Program by calling 1-833-CellCept (1-833-235-5237) from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET (Mon-Fri). To find out more about the patient assistance options available, call 1-888-754-7651 (Mon-Fri). GATCF provides free medicine to eligible patients who are uninsured, rendered uninsured by payer denial, or underinsured.
How do I contact Genentech for patient assistance?
To find out more about the patient assistance options available, call 1-888-754-7651 (Mon-Fri). Genentech Access to Care Foundation (GATCF) GATCF provides free medicine to eligible patients who are uninsured, rendered uninsured by payer denial, or underinsured. To qualify, patients must meet specific criteria.
How often should I get my eyes checked during treatment with Valcyte?
It is important to stay under a healthcare provider’s care and have your eyes checked at least every 4 to 6 weeks during treatment with VALCYTE. to prevent CMV disease in children 4 months to 16 years of age who have received a kidney transplant and have a high risk for getting CMV disease.
How do you get a Valcyte?
It's easy to become a Simplefill member by applying online or calling us at 1(877)386-0206. That's the first step in getting the Valcyte prescription assistance you need. Next, within 24 hours, you'll get a call from one of our trained patient advocates who will ask you some important questions.
What is the generic name for Valcyte?
After a long wait, generic Valcyte (valganciclovir) has been approved and will be available soon! For more information on why the generic was delayed, see our previous post here. Valcyte is used for the prevention and treatment of cytomegalovirus (CMV).
Who manufactures Valcyte?
Genentech: Valcyte® (valganciclovir hydrochloride) - Information for Patients.
What is Valcyte prescribed for?
It is used to prevent disease caused by a virus called cytomegalovirus (CMV) in people who have received organ transplants. CMV disease can lead to serious infections in the body, including an infection in the eye, called CMV retinitis, that can cause blindness.
How long can you take Valcyte?
The usual dose of Valcyte is two tablets taken TWICE a day for 21 days (three weeks). Do not take this dose for more than 21 days unless your doctor tells you to, as this may increase your risk of possible side effects.
Is Valcyte hard on the kidneys?
Valcyte (valganciclovir) can cause serious harm to the kidneys especially in older adults. The risk is also higher if you become dehydrated or take other medications that can harm the kidneys.
Can CMV cause kidney failure?
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is an important cause of renal transplantation complications. It can cause different syndromes or end-organ diseases that can lead to unfavourable clinical outcomes and kidney allograft dysfunction.
What is CMV infection?
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a virus found around the world. It is related to the viruses that cause chickenpox and infectious mononucleosis (mono). Between 50% and 80% of adults in the United States have had a CMV infection by age 40. Once CMV is in a person's body, it stays there for life.
What tier is valganciclovir?
Medicare prescription drug plans typically list valganciclovir on Tier 3 of their formulary. Generally, the higher the tier, the more you have to pay for the medication.
Is CMV a STD?
While all members of the herpes virus family are contagious, CMV isn't considered a sexually transmitted infection (STI) like certain forms of herpes simplex are. Additionally, CMV is considered the only member of the herpes virus family to spread directly from mother to child through the placenta during pregnancy.
Does Valcyte cause fatigue?
The most common adverse reactions and laboratory abnormalities reported in at least one indication by greater than or equal to 20% of adult patients treated with VALCYTE tablets are diarrhea, pyrexia, fatigue, nausea, tremor, neutropenia, anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, headache, insomnia, urinary tract infection ...
How long should I take valganciclovir?
For treatment of CMV infection in the eyes: Adults—At first, 900 milligrams (mg) (two 450 mg tablets) two times a day for 21 days. Then, your doctor may adjust your dose to 900 mg once a day. Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
Is Valganciclovir and acyclovir the same?
Valacyclovir is actually a "prodrug," that is not active itself but rather, it is converted to acyclovir in the body, and it is acyclovir that is active against the viruses. (Acyclovir is available as a topical, oral, and intravenous medication.)
What are the side effects of Valcyte?
Common side effects of Valcyte include:diarrhea,upset stomach,dizziness,loss of balance or coordination,drowsiness,unsteadiness,shaking (tremors),diarrhea,More items...
How long do you take Valcyte after transplant?
Recent clinical trials indicate that a dose of 450 mg daily provides effective CMV prophylaxis. The standard practice at Virginia Mason Medical Center is to prescribe six months of valganciclovir 450 mg daily for CMV prophylaxis in kidney and pancreas transplant recipients.
How do you get cytomegalovirus?
People with CMV may pass the virus in body fluids, such as saliva, urine, blood, tears, semen, and breast milk. CMV is spread from an infected person in the following ways: From direct contact with saliva or urine, especially from babies and young children. Through sexual contact.
What is Valcyte used for?
Adult Patients: VALCYTE (valganciclovir hydrochloride) is indicated for the treatment of cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). VALCYTE is indicated for the prevention of CMV disease in kidney, heart, and kidney-pancreas transplant patients at high risk ...
How to contact Genentech about Valcyte?
SUPPORT. Medicine Information Support. Medical information about Genentech medicines. Call us at (800) 821-8590, Monday-Friday, 5am-5pm PT. Request a Call Back. Request an Office Visit with a Medical Science Liaison. Online Chat.
What is the risk of thrombocytopenia in a low platelet count?
Patients with low baseline platelet counts (< 100,000 /mL) have an increased risk of developing thrombocytopenia. Patients with iatrogenic immunosuppression due to treatment with immunosuppressive drugs are at greater risk of thrombocytopenia than patients with AIDS.
Can Valcyte be used with other drugs?
Toxicity may be enhanced when VALCYTE is co-administered with other drugs known to be mye losuppressive or associated with renal impairment; these drugs should only be considered for concomitant use with valganciclovir if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks.
Is Valcyte a carcinogen?
Mutagenicity and carcinogenicity: Based on animal studies, VALCYTE is potentially mutagenic and carcinogenic.
Does Valcyte affect fertility?
Impairment of fertility: Based on animal studies and limited human data, VALCYTE may cause temporary or permanent inhibition of spermatogenesis, and may cause suppression of fertility in females. Advise patients that fertility may be impaired with use of VALCYTE.
Is Valcyte contraindicated?
VALCYTE is contraindicated in patients who have had a demonstrated clinically significant hypersensitivity reaction (eg, anaphylaxis) to valganciclovir, ganciclovir, or any component of the formulation. WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS: Hematologic toxicity: Severe leukopenia, neutropenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia, pancytopenia, bone marrow depression, ...
What is Valganciclovir used for?
Valganciclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat people with immune system problems (e.g., AIDS) who have a serious eye infection (cytomegalovirus or "CMV" retinitis). Valganciclovir is also used to prevent CMV disease in certain transplant patients (i.e., kidney-pancreas, heart). This medication is not a cure for CMV retinitis.
Can ganciclovir cause low platelets?
WARNING: This drug is changed in the body to its active form (ganciclovir), which may cause severe blood side effects (e.g., low platelets, low blood cell counts). Notify your doctor immediately if you develop unusual fatigue, easy bruising or bleeding, or signs of an infection such as persistent fever or sore throat.
Can you share CMV medication?
Do not share this medication with others. This medication is not a cure for CMV infections, so symptoms may continue or return. Consult your doctor. Regular eye exams are recommended to evaluate the effectiveness of this therapy.
What is Genentech Patient Foundation?
The Genentech Patient Foundation gives free Genentech medicine to people who don't have insurance or who have financial concerns and meet eligibility criteria. Two forms are needed to enroll in the Genentech Patient Foundation:
Is Actemra a RSVP?
ACTEMRA ® (tocilizumab) patients enrolled in ACTEMRA Access Solutions are automatically enrolled in RSVP. Use this form to opt out of this program.
How do I apply for the Valcyte patient assistance program?
We make it as easy as possible to apply for the Valcyte patient assistance program. The first step is to complete our enrollment application. Tell us about any medications you are taking, including Valcyte. We will also ask for details about your healthcare provider, insurance, and your household income. This information is required by the pharmaceutical manufacturers who ship your medication.
How much does Valcyte cost?
If you are eligible for the Valcyte patient assistance program, the cost of your medication will be free. We only charge $49 a month, per medication, to cover our service fees. You could receive your Valcyte prescription for just $49 a month, regardless of the retail price of your medication.
What happens to Valganciclovir once it is in your body?
Valganciclovir, once in your body, is converted into a more active antiviral drug known as ganciclovir. Ganciclovir then in your body undergoes a chemical reaction known as phosphorylation. This reaction depends mostly on viral protein enzymes and because of this occurs mainly in the virus-infected cells. The ganciclovir, now converted to ganciclovir triphosphate directly blocks viral DNA polymerase from producing more viral DNA.
Can NiceRx help me get Valcyte if I have insurance?
We may be able to help you to access Valcyte patient assistance in a variety of circumstances. This includes when your insurance company will not pay for your Valcyte medication or if you have a high copay or coinsurance responsibility. We may also be able to help you if you do not have insurance. Please apply online to find out more.
How to report cellept side effects?
These are not all of the possible side effects of CellCept. Tell your doctor about any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also report side effects to Genentech at 1-888-835-2555.
How to contact mycophenolateREMS?
by phone at 1-800-617-8191 or. by visiting the Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) website at www.mycophenolateREMS.com. The purpose of this registry is to gather information about the health of you and your baby. Increased risk of getting certain cancers.
WHAT SHOULD I AVOID WHILE TAKING CELLCEPT?
Avoid becoming pregnant. See “What is the most important information I should know about CellCept?”
What to do if you miss a cellept?
If you miss a dose of CellCept, or you are not sure when you took your last dose, take your prescribed dose of CellCept as soon as you remember. If your next dose is less than 2 hours away, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at your normal scheduled time. Do not take 2 doses at the same time. Call your doctor if you are not sure what to do.
How long after stopping CellCept can you donate blood?
You should not donate blood while taking CellCept and for at least 6 weeks after stopping CellCept.
What are the infections that can happen with CellCept?
Viral infections that can happen with CellCept include: shingles, other herpes infections , and cytomegalovirus (CMV).
What is cellept used for?
CellCept. ®. (mycophenolate mofetil) is a prescription medicine to prevent rejection (antirejection medicine) in people who have received a kidney, heart or liver transplant. Rejection is when the body’s immune system perceives the new organ as a “foreign” threat and attacks it. CellCept is used with other medicines containing cyclosporine ...
Important Note
Uses
How to Use
- What is the most important information I should know about VALCYTE?
VALCYTE can cause serious side effects, including: 1. Blood and bone marrow problems. VALCYTE can affect the bone marrow lowering the amount of your white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets and may cause serious and life-threatening problems. 2. Kidney failure. Kidne… - What should I tell my doctor before taking VALCYTE?
Before you take VALCYTE, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you: 1. have low blood cell counts 2. have kidney problems 3. are receiving hemodialysis 4. are receiving radiation treatment 5. are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.Se…
Side Effects
Precautions
- Adult Patients: VALCYTE (valganciclovir hydrochloride) is indicated for the treatment of cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). VALCYTE is indicated for the prevention of CMV disease in kidney, heart, and kidney-pancreas transplant patients at high risk (Donor CMV seropositive/Recipient CMV seron...
Drug Interactions
Overdose
Notes
- Valganciclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat people with immune system problems (e.g., AIDS) who have a serious eye infection (cytomegalovirus or "CMV" retinitis). Valganciclovir is also used to prevent CMV disease in certain transplant patients (i.e., kidney-pancreas, heart). This medication is not a cure for CMV retinitis.
Missed Dose
- This medication is taken by mouth usually once or twice daily with food, or as directed by your doctor. The dosage and frequency is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. This medication must be swallowed whole. Do not crush or chew this drug. Avoid skin or eye contact with any powder from broken or crushed doses because it may be harmful. Should skin …
Storage
- Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, dizziness, headache, or trouble sleeping may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: stomach pain, fever, easy bleeding or bruising, persistent sore throat, chills, unusual weakness and fatigue, tingling or numbness of the hands or feet. Tell your …